The goal of this index would be to provide a summary of the vast available economic data as it pertains to bankruptcy filing and bankruptcy risk in Oregon.

The method behind this index might gauge unemployment levels, interest rates, business loans, and other economic criteria. The data I review and include will depend highly on how my econometric analysis from earlier posts turns out. Data with a large correlation would be prime for more research and possible addition into the index. A solid index of numbers might then allow for prediction of future bankruptcy filings.

The obvious benefit of this index could be for real estate companies, banks and investors. The index might help gauge economic and legal/litigation risk levels. After the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005, bankruptcies went down significantly only to rise up slowly towards the current economic downturn. Bankruptcy lawyers have learned the law and are now better at getting their clients though the new regulations with five years of experience against the 2005 legal changes. The index might be able to include and factor in such changes in the regulatory environment.

Notary fees in Oregon are going up. But your local bank will still notarize documents for free usually. I posted the news release from the Oregon Secretary of State office below.

“Measure 67 makes the Notary Public program self-supporting.
The first fee increase since 1989, more than 20 years ago, has been granted to make the Notary Public programs self-sustaining. Beginning February 27, 2010, the measure increases the fee to apply for a 4-year notary public commission from $20 to $40. The average fee charged in other states is $33. Since 1989, the Corporation Division has developed and distributed the Notary Public Guide, conducted regular live seminars throughout the state, an online notary tutorial, and a notary education vendor approval program, for no additional charge.

This is not to be confused with our previous announcement:

As authorized by 2009 HB 2085, beginning January 1, 2010 notaries may charge up to $10 for each notarial act. These fees may be turned over to an employer – public agencies and private businesses – by agreement.

So, it will cost $40 to be commissioned for 4 years, but a notary may then charge clients $10 per notarization. “

I guess that is nice that the notary program is now self supporting. If you are in Oregon and want to become a Notary do it fast!

The best option like most educational choices, get your current employer to pay for it.